Read the following extract from a conduct book for “married women”, published in 1912. ‘God has made the female species delicate and fragile both physically and emotionally, pitiably incapable of self-defence. They are destined thus by God to remain in male protection – of father, husband and son – all their lives. Women should, therefore, not despair, but feel obliged that they can dedicate themselves to the service of men’. Do you think the values expressed in this para reflected the values underlying our constitution? Or does this go against the constitutional values?

The values expressed in the quoted text from a 1912 conduct book for married women contradict the principles upheld by the Indian Constitution. While the book propagates the idea of female dependence and servitude to men, the Constitution of India, formulated in 1950, stands for equality, dignity, and fundamental rights for all, regardless of gender.

The Constitution guarantees equality (Article 14), prohibits gender-based discrimination (Article 15), and upholds the right to life and personal liberty (Article 21) for everyone. It strives to empower women by ensuring equal opportunities and safeguarding their rights through various laws.

The text from 1912 reflects outdated and unjust notions about women, opposing the constitutional values of gender equality, freedom, and dignity. The Constitution’s vision is to establish a society where women have equal rights, opportunities, and autonomy, completely contrasting the subservient portrayal of women in the quoted text.